Carlie LeBreton

When and how did you get into climbing? What keeps you interested? What fascinates you?

I started climbing at the local climbing gym in Wollongong when I was 14. I did't pick a different sport for the whole time in high school. I climbed every weekend at Nowra. I love how climbing can take you all over the world there is alway something to climb! I really like training, nothing better then finishing a session feeling like you have worked hard. I am also a National route setters so that keeps me busy. It's a nice feeling when people come up to you a say your climb was cool and fun. Also its really good when you get perfect splits in events!

Who were your childhood heroes?

Lynn Hill, she is amazing and always though as a short climber if Lynn can do it I can! Also my husband Rob. 

Do you consider yourself a role model now? Does it influence you at all that other people look up to you?

I hope I do, as one of the only national female route setter it would be great to see more female setting in comps and at the local climbing gyms more. Also being a mother, its a hard job trying to climb at a high level and look after little ones. 

What have been the most important milestones in your life so far, both in climbing and in everyday life? And did you recognize them immediately as such or only later on?

Winning comps when I was young was a great achievement for me, I was National Open champion for 4 years in a row and winning my age group at a International event in USA. Also climbing many hard routes at Nowra, Cheesemonster was my best route! 

Also marrying Rob and having Remy are my favourite milestones! 

What were your greatest failures / setbacks / injuries? How did you cope with them and how did you come back from them?

I have had shoulder surgery on my right shoulder. Its alway hard being injured but thinking about climbing and the great times ahead make it worth the wait!

What is your favourite climbing-related story / experience?

Climbing at new crags with my husband Rob.

For me its topping your project or winning a competition. Nothing better than that feeling.

Do you have a strict training schedule for when and how you train throughout the year?

Haha with a child it changes everyday! I try but you do have adapted when you can. 

What advice can you give to others looking to improve their training routine?

Ask other what they do, training is always changing keep up to date and try and stick to the routine and plan. Training with others.

Can anyone train to be able to do a one-armed pull-up or reach the summit of the Eiger/Matterhorn? Or do you have to be born for it?

If you want to then you can! You have to have goals, whats the point if there is no dreams.

How important is it to set goals in professional sports? What are your goals? What targets are you working towards for your climbing and in life?

Having a child I find it a little harder to set goals but you have to have them. I am really keen to climb 30 again and I am alway training for the next competition. As a setting you have to fit and strong like the competitors. I try! Also Rob and I are keen to see some more crags around the world and some of our old favourites!